Personal Shopping Experience At Selfridges

Tuesday, 5 April 2016

So most of you will know if you already follow me on my social media, that I'm pretty clueless about make up and beauty products. I've never really been one to spend money on make up or skincare, I'd much rather have the money for clothes and accessories (bad I know!). However, when I was invited to have an exclusive insight to the Selfridges personal shopping experience at their beauty department in the Trafford Centre, I was intrigued to see if I could actually be persuaded to spend my hard earned cash on something other than what I wear!

I was greeted by the lovely Des, who is the personal shopper for the beauty department. I had actually been rather nervous about meeting him, as I am so clueless, I was concerned I'd be an embarrassment to bloggers. I needn't have been as he is one of the loveliest people I have met during my time as a blogger. I immediately felt at ease, and couldn't wait to ask him my very long list of questions. We first headed to the Birch Box station, which is at the Trafford Centre store until April 9th (you can find out more here). I had obviously heard of Birch Box, but I'd never thought of subscribing, so this was a great chance to see just what it was all about. If you haven't heard of it, it's basically a fab subscription box. You get 6 new beauty products direct to your door each month, which is great for people like me who need to try new things before I commit to buying them!

I had the choice of choosing 6 products from a fab selection of 24. I was so lucky to have Des to talk me through the choices as it was pretty overwhelming for a non beauty addict!

I chose some amazing products (all tagged on my Instagram) and they all come in a cute little bag and box which are so lovely for keeping my brushes in (yes I do own some!).

Next it was off for the consultation, this is the usual chat that Des would have with his clients before he takes them around the store. This took place in a gorgeous little room at the back of the beauty department. It's important for Des that this time is as private and relaxed as possible, so he can really get to know his clients. As well as being a beauty and skincare guru, with over 18 years in the business, Des is also a great listener and can totally empathise with the beauty problems that people come to him with. We discussed the fact that the beauty industry is not just a superficial, shallow world. In fact it's the opposite and can make women and men feel empowered, and feeling good about themselves which will ultimately get them through whatever life throws at them.

Over the years Des has had a major impact on people's lives. He has made friends with his clients and can help them through a variety of issues, whether it's finding the right lipstick for a big job interview, or helping them through a difficult time finding them a way to build their confidence back up.

I tell Des that it feel like I'm in a mini counselling session, as he asks me about my lifestyle, stresses and worries that have an impact on my skin care regime. Whether it's time your short of, or have a small budget, It's great to feel like someone is actually wanting to help you out, rather than just sell you a product. That's another great thing about the service; Des is employed by Selfridges, not a particular brand, which means a unbiased, honest and fair look at the make up and skin care available.

It was then my turn to ask the questions. I wanted to know more about the man behind the personal shopper, and see what makes him so passionate about beauty. Having worked in some of the most prestigious stores in the country, including; Harrods and stores on Bond Street, Des has seen it all. He knows what luxury is, and he knows quality when he sees it. He's worked with all the top brands, and trained at Givency. He describes luxury goods as "in his bones", yet this doesn't stop him from telling me about his latest favourite addition to the beauty hall, budget brand NYX. He openly admits that he's a user of both luxury and budget, which let's face it, most of us mix it up when it comes to beauty. He has personally tried most of the brands and his unbiased opinion is a valuable voice at Selfridges.

He explains that he is so passionate about beauty due to the difference he can see it makes to his clients. He finishes his day with a genuine satisfaction that he has helped someone, and enjoys going into work every day, a pleasure most of us don't get from our jobs. This passion and clear enjoyment of the work he does make the whole experience enjoyable and fun. It's like talking to your best friend, who happens to know everything there is to know about beauty.

Before I left, Des very kindly gave me what can only be described as a humongous bag of samples, which he had gone round and chosen before I had arrived. It was a fantastic experience and I can't recommend the service enough. A massive thank you to Des and the team at Selfrigdes, you have definitely turned me into a beauty addict!

You can make an appointment by contacting Des, either by phone: 07885271883 or via email at: des.davis@selfridges.co.uk